Hey everyone,
I’m currently trying to decide between two gravel bikes and could really use some input or real-world experiences from you all.
Bike 1: Cube Nuroad C:62 EX (€2699)
+Price
+Weight (~8.5 kg)
+Full carbon (frame, wheels, handlebar, seatpost)
+-New GRX Di2 12-speed ± Not sure yet about the new Di2 in gravel use
-Proprietary mounting system (Cube-specific rack, fenders, etc.)
-Feels a bit “emotionless” to me subjectively
-No Frame Storage
Bike 2: Trek Checkpoint SL 6 Gen 3 (€2879)
+Looks better to me, more “emotional appeal”
+Frame storage
+Standard mounting points (more flexible for accessories)
+IsoSpeed (not sure how much it really adds?)
+-SRAM Rival 13-speed
-Higher price
-Heavier (~9.5 kg)
-Not fully carbon (wheels + cockpit)
Objectively speaking, the Cube seems like the clear winner: better components for less money.
But I’m really struggling with the decision. I’ve actually test ridden the Checkpoint on forest trails and had a lot of fun with it. The Cube I only rode briefly inside the shop, so the comparison might be a bit unfair since I already associate some positive эмоtions with the Trek.
On the other hand, you could argue that the frame is the most important part, and components can always be upgraded over time. But I think the Cube frame is even lighter, although it comes with the mentioned drawbacks.
So now I’m stuck between:
- Better value & specs (Cube) vs.
- Better feel & emotional connection (Trek)
What would you do in my situation?
Anyone with experience on either of these bikes?
Thanks a lot! 🚴
by Br3b
8 Comments
I really like the new Checkpoints. They look great. I also think having standard mounts would be a lot easier in The long run and give you more versatility for accessories.
Also, is the Cube straight-to-consumer with no local bike store? That would also play a part for me. Good to have a dealer for warranty issues, service etc.
Get the bike that speaks to you. It has never been cheaper to upgrade wheels, and posts with carbon parts down the road.
I’d get the one I ‘like’ more based on what you describe as emotional connection I think. It’s cycling, it should be fun, and you should be motivated to go out for a ride. And I do that more with the bike that I for example like the looks and features of 🙂
But if you really care about speed / racing then I think that’s another discussion!
Listen to your heart. The bike you admire the most will make you want go out more.
For me, a threaded BB (Trek) is a big plus, and the T47 on my Checkpoint Gen 2 has been flawless since 2022, not the slightest noise.
The aluminum version of the Nuroad with the carbon post is enough of a great deal that I’d accept Pressfit, but for these higher specs I’d probably go for the Trek. Worth noting that the Isospeed on the Gen 2 was a notable difference to a CroMoly gravel frame (Bombtrack Hook Ext). Against modern carbon frames with plenty of exposed carbon post, it may become negligible especially on big tires
Pay extra and get a higher spec Trek. Best of both worlds and worth the investment to remove the anxiety/regret.
Or could plan to upgrade trek wheels down the line if you feel it’s missing something.
Cube and its not even close. Trek is objectively worse there
I would not worry too much about the weight unless you’re going to be a competitive racer. And even then. The Trek stores your gear in the frame so that’s maybe a little aero benefit or at least brings the mass of the kit lower to the ground which is better for handling. The isofit system makes it more comfortable, making you ride longer and performing better. Upgrade the wheels down the road to some nice wide carbon rims and the handlebars eventually to carbon and smaller or wider, whatever a bike fit recommends or how aero you want to be.
So don’t worry about that kilo. Unless your motto is don’t race what you can’t replace and the Cube fits that motto better, I’d choose the Trek. (And I am a Cube fan but then we’re looking at different bikes and or price classes)